The New Reality of Federal OT Security
In the current threat landscape, the traditional 'castle-and-moat' approach to network security is no longer sufficient for federal agencies. With the release of CISA’s latest guidance on micro-segmentation, the mandate is clear: agencies must move beyond perimeter-based defenses to protect critical Operational Technology (OT) and facility networks. As cyber adversaries increasingly target the interconnectedness of industrial systems, the ability to limit lateral movement is no longer an optional upgrade—it is a fundamental requirement for mission resilience.
At TSS Group, we recognize that securing OT environments requires a nuanced understanding of both legacy infrastructure and modern Zero Trust principles. As a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB), we bring a unique perspective to this challenge. Our veteran leadership and commitment to 51% direct veteran labor ensure that our solutions are not just technically sound, but built with the discipline and mission-focus required for federal environments. We provide single-point accountability, ensuring that the integration of your security stack is handled by a team that understands the stakes of federal compliance.
Aligning with CISA and NIST 800-207
CISA’s recent focus on micro-segmentation as a core component of Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA) aligns directly with the principles outlined in NIST SP 800-207. The goal is to transition from broad network access to granular, identity-aware connectivity. For federal agencies, this means implementing Policy Enforcement Points (PEPs) that verify every request, regardless of whether it originates from within the facility or from a remote location.
We at TSS Group leverage the Onclave TrustedPlatform to help agencies meet these requirements. By creating secure, isolated enclaves, we effectively shrink the attack surface. Unlike traditional VLANs that often leave networks vulnerable to lateral movement, Onclave’s approach ensures that OT assets remain invisible to unauthorized users, directly addressing the risks highlighted in recent CISA advisories regarding ransomware and state-sponsored threats.
The SDVOSB Advantage: Self-Performance and Accountability
In the federal space, the complexity of integrating new security technologies into existing OT environments can lead to fragmented accountability. TSS Group eliminates this friction. Because we prioritize self-performance, our clients benefit from a team that is deeply embedded in the deployment process. We do not rely on a patchwork of subcontractors; we provide a single point of accountability that simplifies the path to an Authority to Operate (ATO).
Our consultative approach ensures that your micro-segmentation strategy is not just a checkbox for compliance, but a functional enhancement to your operational security. We work closely with agency stakeholders to identify critical assets, map traffic flows, and implement policies that protect your mission-essential functions without disrupting daily operations.
Implementing a Phased Approach to Zero Trust
Transitioning to a micro-segmented environment is a journey, not a single event. CISA recommends a phased approach, starting with the identification of high-value assets and critical OT systems.
TSS Group supports this by:
Asset Discovery: Identifying and categorizing OT/IoT devices that are often overlooked in traditional IT security audits.
Policy Definition: Establishing granular access controls that align with the principle of least privilege.
Secure Enclave Deployment: Utilizing Onclave to isolate critical systems, ensuring that even if a segment is compromised, the breach is contained.
Continuous Monitoring: Providing the visibility required to detect and respond to anomalies in real-time. By focusing on these steps, agencies can systematically reduce their risk profile while maintaining compliance with Executive Order 14028 and NDAA Section 889 requirements.
Secure Your Infrastructure Today
Securing federal OT is a complex task, but you do not have to navigate it alone. At TSS Group, we combine technical expertise with the agility and dedication of an SDVOSB to help you implement CISA-recommended security measures effectively. If your agency is ready to move toward a more resilient, Zero Trust-aligned network, we invite you to reach out for a consultation. Let us help you build a more secure future for your facility networks.